Thai-style Steamed Clams

A few weeks ago, when my friend Eat A Duck I Must came to shoot my cookbook promo video for me, I made her a killer pot of Penang Assam laksa. After she left, all the remaining spices had been sitting in my fridge in a dark corner—lemongrass, bird’s eye chilies, galangal, and lime juice. Last week, my market was having a sale of Manila clams and I thought about a great recipe that would make use of the spices. I made this yummy Thai-style steamed clams…

This steamed clams dish is everything Thai food is all about: hot, sour, aromatic, and addictive. Other than the spices, the secret ingredient is coconut water. You can get canned coconut water at Asian stores, however, water is fine as the clams are naturally briny and flavorful. I must say that the coconut water does add a subtle sweetness to the overall dish, and pairs perfectly with the exotic aromas of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves.

Try this Thai steamed clams recipe the next time you have some Thai ingredients at hand. I am certain you will enjoy the great taste.

i cannot lie, that assam laksa was so good, i closed my eyes and was transported back to that hot and sticky afternoon at the foot of kek lok si… it could also be that it was so spicy it made me delirious. either way it was awesome and now i want these clams too!

This recipe reminds me of the thai mussels i have had at my favorite thai joint. I also think they may add another ingredient that i think i taste, maybe tamarind? do you think tamarind would go well with this? and what is galangal? I love your site. everything always looks so delicious. I am from trinidad but we love asian cuisine.